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You’re inside the clinic’s impromptu prison cell room with some company. Last time, you forcefully interrogated the crap out of 7W157 for information you needed about the Assembly and other things you didn’t know about. Currently you’re chatting with Nina and the other prisoner: Billy Buonanotte. And without missing a beat after answer some of your questions, Billy has proposed his services and wants to join the team…!

The team still has no name after about a month, but you can always leave that to later.

“Pardon me, as I’m slightly confused with what you just said. Could you repeat that?” Nina is taken by surprise, it came out of nowhere after all. It threw you off too, but you don’t show it.

“Billy wants in, baby. That simple. I know the game, I know the field, I know the rules. I’m sure I can be of help. Don’t underestimate a man who has seen it all.” Billy smirks. It’s not the smug smirk you would see on Poker Nights, but the confident smile of someone with experience backing them up. “…Please.” He drops his head, almost bowing to you. All the confidence he showed you empties out of him in seconds. “Like I said, I don’t mind a trial period or anything. I’ll work hard to gain your trust, then your respect. Billy will shine once again, and siding with you is the way to make that happen.”

Emotions flash one after another on Nina’s face. It’s all various flavors of confusion. “What do you think?” Your ex-girlfriend turns to you, expecting an answer.

So what do you think?

>Better to accept his offer. You need all the people you can get.
>Shrug and tell Nina she’s the leader and not you. It’s up to her.
>Refuse. Neither of you is that stupid to let him join like this.
>Confer with Philonune. He might have some useful input.
>Write In.
>>
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>>3577347

Information:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/QM91m
Discord: https://discord.gg/AmjbaTR
Archives: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=do+your+best+quest (Rough Grammar ‘till half of the 9th Thread)
Complete Guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-nIx_dvaNCPQ7zLg2BK_ucCyGNM741kAANxqXj7hdDs/edit?usp=sharing

Votes:

Votes are counted until 25 minutes have passed. This rule doesn't apply to the last reply of the day.
Votes that require a dice roll are counted until 15 minutes have passed, so we can speed up the process. Rolls are counted until 10 minutes have passed, so be prepared!

(NEW) Dice Mechanic:

We always roll 1d100s!
Since most people weren’t happy with the system of averaging top four rolls, we’re using best of 2/3/4 depending on the attribute a prompt requires. If Johnny is a genius and it’s a Knowledge based roll, he gets more rolls (Max. 7)! If he sucks, he gets less dice (Min. 2)!

When asked for rolls, I will specify how many you’re going to get. Rolling begins after it’s asked.

Rolling over a 95 is a critical and ignores all other rolls! In the same vein, rolling 5 or under means a critical failure (only for hard rolls and above).

The difficulty of the roll is tied with the effectiveness of the action. In other words, the harder the option the better the result!

Don’t forget that at the end of the day, this is a story-driven quest! What the prompts are describing is more important than the difficulty of the rolls, for results in a fight.

Again, rolls are only counted when they are posted within ten minutes of being asked, so watch out!
>>
>>3577347
>>Better to accept his offer. You need all the people you can get.
We'll give him a chance to prove himself but make it clear he'll be under close watch. Can never be to careful
>>
>>3577352
+1 friendmatching time.
>>
>>3577347
>Shrug and tell Nina she’s the leader and not you. It’s up to her.
>>
>>3577347
This >>3577352
>>
>>3577347
>Better to accept his offer. You need all the people you can get.
Give him limited autonomy though. He's clearly a crafty one.
>>
>>3577347
>>Better to accept his offer. You need all the people you can get.
Nina just asked us our opinion, it would be dumb to just shrug and tell to choose
>>
>>3577347
>>Write In.
Confer with the entire team first, don't want them to get upset with any decisions.
>>
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“I think we should give him a chance to prove himself.” You raise your fist. “We’ll have him under close watch if we have to.” Can never be too careful…
“You think so…?”
“Yeah, Johnny! I knew we play the same tune, brother.” Billy Buonanotte salutes you.

Nina grabs your arm and turns you two around. She gets closer to you and starts whispering.

“Matilda recommended me to stop second-guessing myself and to make up my mind without everyone’s input. Keep a rigid hierarchical dynamic for the group.” Nina pauses there all of a sudden. You motion for her to continue. “But isn’t this too big of a decision for me to take alone?”
“Nina, you’re doing exactly what Matilda told you not to.” You whisper back, scratching the back of your head. Originally that was the idea of the group. “Everyone chose you as a leader because we trust you and your judgment. I know I did. And if someone isn’t okay with this, I’m sure they’ll speak up.”

“Right.” She walks away towards the cell, not hesitating or anything. “Mr. Buonanotte, I have good news. Your wish will be granted with some conditions. Like Johnny said, you will be under close watch and have restricted autonomy – I can’t go into details now, but you will have to abide by our rules from now on. Those are our conditions. Do you accept?”

“Roger that! ‘Perfect’ Billy Buonanotte at your service!” Billy strikes a pose despite still being roped up. That’s a pretty cool skill…

Nina opens the prison cell and releases the crafty individual. “Follow me. There is still a test you must endure if you want to be officially part of our team. We will meet up with Constance.”
“Hold on, are you giving him his flame back just like that?” You wonder if this is going too fast for another flame user you just met.
“I never said that.” She winks. What does she have in mind…?

Out of the blue, everyone’s phone starts to ring simultaneously! The signal is back! Woohoo! Part of you wonders why it took this long for it to return, but you put that out of your mind for now. The moment your phone opens up, you get a call from Scarlet! Before you can answer her, Nina’s phone also starts to ring…

“Excuse me, Mr. Buonanotte. I need to answer this quickly.” Nina leaves the room as she pulls out her phone. Billy is still tied up, so it’s not like he can do much even with the cell door open.
“Go ahead.” Billy smiles like you shouldn’t worry about him.

What do you do?

>Answer your phone and have a quick chat. You still need to see how this develops, but you want to make sure everyone else is fine.
>Answer your phone and take your time. You might need to do some calls of your own. You need to catch up with everyone outside the clinic!
>Close the call. Send a text to everyone that you’re fine and that you’ll call them later. Your eyes won’t leave Billy! You can’t trust him just yet!
>Write In.
>>
>>3577460
>Answer your phone and take your time. You might need to do some calls of your own. You need to catch up with everyone outside the clinic!
>>
>>3577460
>Answer your phone and take your time. You might need to do some calls of your own. You need to catch up with everyone outside the clinic!
>>
>>3577460
>Answer your phone and take your time. You might need to do some calls of your own. You need to catch up with everyone outside the clinic!
Billy's still tied up and there's only one door to the cell room. He has no entity to use powers, and everybody else in the room is unconscious. Also Nina is right here to call backup if shit still happens. We're fine.
>>
>>3577460
>>Answer your phone and take your time. You might need to do some calls of your own. You need to catch up with everyone outside the clinic!
Oh cool, I was planning on calling the people we know as soon the power came back on
>>
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There is no way for Billy to escape at all. There is only one door and if he tries to do anything funny, Nina can call for backup – and that’s not even thinking about you doing something about it yourself. Besides, he looks chill enough you assume he won’t be a problem.

Without wasting any more time thinking about your newest recruit, you answer your phone right here!

“Hello?” You say first.
“Johnny? Are you okay? Are you safe? Where are you? Is Ame with you? I was so wowwied!” Yep, that’s Scarlet’s voice with lisp and all! “Ay! I mean worried!”
“I’m so glad to hear you are doing fine.” It’s a real relief. After how chaotic the citywide Crimzone went, it’s nice to hear some good news. “Everyone else is fine here. Is everyone in your family fine? Have you managed to contact anyone else yet?”
“Yes, they are!” The phone goes silent but the call hasn’t ended. “…Uhm, I’ve just been dialing your number all day. So no, I haven’t…” Scarlet sounds about as guilty as you expected.

You’re lucky the call worked at all, imagining everyone trying to get their own calls through in the rest of the city…

“Johnny… Do you know what’s going on? This wasn’t like last time when the power ran out. I saw a tank outside. I never heard so many shots in my life. And…” Scarlet asks you a heavy question you’re not sure you can answer straight-up. On the other end, you can hear her sniffing. “I’m scared…”
“I don’t know either.” You tell her the truth, somewhat. “But everything should be fine now, yeah?” It reminds you of that other time when you spent a good part of the day consoling her and her fear of thunder. On top of that, imaging her under her blankets again reminds you of a certain other girl you know… “I’ll pay you a visit as soon as I can. If we’re able to…”
“You p-promise?”
“Of course. I won’t let you down.” Fuck, you won’t let anyone down! Even if some of them let you down! Not like Scarlet has ever let you down, thankfully…

And the call kept going for another 15 minutes until Scarlet was brave enough to finally let you hang up! Hearing your voice calmed her down a lot, and you did your best to make her feel better for now. It still worries you, but she told you she was fine. She did mention her father is thinking about moving out of the city…

…You don’t know what to make of it. Scarlet has always been one of the few people you could talk to not involved in this war. Her leaving… It doesn’t sit right with you.

“A girl I presume?”
Oh yeah, Billy is in here watching you on the phone. “Yes, but er…” It isn’t like that. You’re not sure if you’re regretful about it or not, though. You’re not sure about a lot of things lately.
“Hey Johnny, no need to say anything. I recognize a fellow player when I see one. But if you wanna talk, man to man, we can talk whenever you want.”
>>
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>>3577683

In lieu of an answer, you simply shrug at him. You appreciate his offer for what it is, but you still won’t take it.

Calling other people is tempting and all, but it’s best if you move on. Opening the heavy bunker door a crack and peeking outside, you see Nina still on the phone. From what little you can pick up from here, she’s talking to her mother and about… a bucket? What?



…Maybe you have time to make other calls. As soon as the opportunity arrives, your phone rings again. It’s Roger Jackson! He asked you how you were doing and how things went.

Halfway through your talk, Nina came back inside the room and asked if you’re going with her to the mummy’s room. You shook your head and tapped your phone a few times. Nina just smiled and told you she’s taking Billy to Constance’s room with Matilda. It doesn’t take long for Matilda to arrive and help escort the perfectionist (?) out of here.

Meanwhile, you continue talking with the ex-police officer. Turns out he was on duty yesterday for some reason and witnessed some incredible stuff. He asked you to meet him to go into details before he and his wife Stella leave Pokyo Lokyo for good.

Wait, is everyone planning to leaving the capital?!

Anyway, he did mention something important before hanging up…

“Kid… you’re still friends with the Villiers girl, right?”
“If you mean Lise, yeah. I guess we could be considered friends…” Why is he asking you this out of the blue? If you remember right, Lise’s dad was the police chief. Maybe it’s related to that?
“Listen, I know I’m not really qualified to ask you a favor, but could you give me her number? I really need to talk to her.”
“…Why is that?” This doesn’t sound good…

“Promise you won’t tell her. Okay?” Roger asks, grave compared to how he usually is. In response, you nod on the phone where no-one can see you, like the dumbass you are. “I have some bad news. Her father is dead.”

“…” Holy shit, didn’t he just wake up!? What the fuck is going on?! “Oh…” Come on, you gotta think of something to say!

How do you respond to this shocking news?!

>“Don’t worry, I’ll send you her number.”
>“Are you seriously going to tell her by phone?”
>Write In.

Who else do you plan to call after this is done?

>Craig.
>Terry.
>Trent.
>Ajna.
>Ruffus.
>Ka-Shing?
>Nobody! You need to check what’s going on with Billy!
>Write In.
>>
>>3577688
>“Are you seriously going to tell a girl her dad is dead over the phone? Why not go to her yourself? You know where she lives, don't you? What's stopping you?”

>Craig.
He's literally Johnny's landlord and he knows about the flame shit. He has a right to know what's going on.
>Ruffus.
Literally Johnny's guardian even though he barely gets any screentime. Why not call him too?
>Ka-Shing?
I feel like it would be in-character for Johnny after accidentally letting a bald cultist's mole entity cut him up and hospitalize him, on top of taking him hostage before that. No hard feelings, right?
>>
>>3577688
>>“Are you seriously going to tell her by phone?”
You say something like that over the phone. We can help him if he needs us to

>>Ajna.
Out of everybody she's the one I'm most concerned about. She wasn't in exactly mental health before all this...
>>
>>3577688
>Ruffus
>Ka-Shing
>Ajna
>>
>>3577688
How do you respond to this shocking >“Are you seriously going to tell her by phone?”

Who else do you plan to call after this is done?
>Craig.
>Terry.
>Trent.
I would call Ajna, but Craig was looking after her, and she probably won't answer our call anyway
>>
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“Are you seriously going to tell her that her dad is dead over the phone?”

You hear the cop sigh heavily on the other end. “Johnny, I don’t know if you’ve been keeping up with the news, but right now we cannot leave our homes until who knows when. I feel like shit just thinking about doing this this way. I’ve done my share of delivering bad news to families of victims; everybody eventually does in this line of work. It’s just that with the situation all over the place, I’m not even sure the news will reach her anytime soon.” Footsteps echo from Jackson’s side. Must be pacing around in anxiety…“The police is in absolute shambles. HQ burned down and half the force is probably dead. The corpses in the street haven’t been identified yet, and I was lucky to hear what happened to Dan. I suspect most of us haven’t.”

“I… I see.”
“Don’t worry kid, I’m going to be the one getting shit for this. I’ll make the best of this shit we’re all stuck in. You do you. Oh, and keep an eye on the news as soon as you can. Things are changing. See ya.” With that cryptic warning, he hangs up.

…You wanted to say something to him. His number rings busy when you try to dial it again. Part of you fears the worst, but you are not entirely sure what you are supposed to even do or say to him. You just feel bad for Lise.

You look over the inside the prison cell and the two unconscious guys are still… well, unconscious. They almost appear sleeping at this point, and if they didn’t wake up with 7W157’s shrieking, then there is no way they will interrupt you.

Anyway, now you’re starting to feel anxious about the others… Taking this time to make some more calls would be for the best. First you need to report yourself to Ruffus! You keep forgetting about him, but he’s your guardian after all.

It was a short call and he sounded distressed. He and his family are at the “Los Santos” Clinic in the east district of the city. One of his children, his daughter, suffered an accident on the Crimzone day and they are fearing the worst. Everyone else is fine, but he sounds like he’s going through a lot. You tried to comfort him but it fell on deaf ears. He apologized for not calling you and neglecting you in general. You told him it doesn’t matter and to hang in there, because there wasn’t anything else you could say to him.

That was quite the shock, but you get over it quickly. There’s nothing you can do but call more people…

Next on your list is Ka-Shing! Last time you saw him, he was practically dead by demon mole mauling. His henchmen were carrying him away before you left the Ka-Shino lot, so he could be fine. You’re not sure if he has his phone with him wherever he is, but it’s worth a try!
>>
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>>3577865

Surprisingly, someone picks up! It’s Gonzales! His most important bodyguard! For some reason, he felt the need to answer his boss’ phone. You asked how Ka-Shing was doing and Gonzales told you he’s fine but resting. You send your regards and a speedy recovery! Gonzales didn’t know how to feel about you having his boss’ number, but that’s his boss’ prerogative and not his.

Maybe it’s because he’s been reasonable despite technically being your enemy in this war? Maybe it’s because he outright gave you 25K Gor$ for beating him at a children’s card game? You don’t know exactly why, but it’s comforting to know he survived that day…

Next, you tried to call Ajna. No response, not even a busy ring. Is her phone even working? You immediately call Craig instead, because he’d know if Ajna was okay!

“Johnny, for fuck’s sake! Is that really you?!” Craig is yelling way too loud for the morning!
“Yes, it’s me! How are you guys doing over there? You okay?”
“Finally, some good fucking news…” The energy drains from Craig’s voice. Something about it sounds raw, as if he’s been yelling a lot more lately. “Kid, I’ve been trying to contact you any way I could. Did the pigeon ever arrive?”
“…The what now?”

“God damn it! I told Double J that shit wouldn’t work! Fuck, whatever…” Craig doesn’t seem too afflicted now. “Could you do me a favor, man? Osgood’s girlfriend called me just now and could you please tell that fucker to pick up his damn phone? I know he’s over there doing something important, and I know they’re not a couple anymore, but the girl is worried sick! Could you please? I’ll owe you one!”



…?

>“Craig, Osgood’s dead.”
>“I’ll see what I can do…”
>“How is Ajna? Is she okay?”
>”Do you have her number?”
>“Hold up, I’ll go back to the apartment. I need to tell you something important.” Impromptu stealth mission!
>Write In.
>>
>>3577868
>“I’ll see what I can do…”
>“How is Ajna? Is she okay?”
>>
>>3577868
>>“How is Ajna? Is she okay?”
Deflect for now. We can tell him when we see him
>>
>>3577868
>>“Craig, Osgood’s dead.”
>>
>>3577868
>“How is Ajna? Is she okay?”
>>
>>3577868
>“Craig, Osgood’s dead.”
>>
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“How is Ajna? Is she okay?” This is a great response because you need to deflect to not be a hypocrite from before, and you’re genuinely concerned about Ajna. Win-win?
“She’s awful. Absolutely terrible. Well, as much as she can be without actually being hurt physically.” That’s not reassuring at all!
“What happened?”

“She screamed something about everything turning red and locked herself inside her room two days ago. She screams like she’s being murdered every time I try to open the damn door or talk to her, or anything at all. I hear her begging for her dear life because the demons are finally out and are going to destroy the city. She hasn’t eaten, taken her pills, or taken care of herself in any way.” Craig sounds so defeated. “The one time I actually managed to open the door she fainted on me. As soon as she woke up, she locked herself in again. She scratched and punched me just to go back. At least I had the chance to make her drink some water while she was unconscious. I don’t know if that really helped or if I almost casually murdered her! Maybe I should’ve made her take a pill or two? Eh, she’s alive so that’s worth something I guess.” Your friendly landlord groans in weariness and exasperation. “I’m so fucking out of my depth I don’t know what the fuck to do. I called my girlfriend and managed to make Ajna listen to her – but nothing she said worked. Now I have her worried sick too! It’s plain awful…”

“I see…”

“I know it has to do with the weird shit that’s happening with you all, right? That demon crap is totally the ghost monster tournament you’re all in, or am I wrong? Fuck, I don’t really care. I just don’t want Ajna to die. What do I do, man? What can I do? I need help…” Craig sounds so done it hurts to listen.

There’s no doubt about it: Ajna saw the Crimzone covering the city that day. She might have even seen some fighting going on, maybe heard or saw Seioubo stomping through the streets… or worse! And now she’s probably beyond how bad she was when you first met her…

This is fucking terrible no matter how you look at it.

What can you do in this situation?

>“Stay there, I’ll manage to get in there somehow. I’ll find a way to help Ajna.” You have no plan at all if you get there!
>“Could you try to put me close to Ajna so she can hear my voice? I know exactly what to say to her.” You have absolutely no idea what to say to her…
>“Tell her the demons are gone or something… That’s kinda true because all the stuff that she felt ended two nights ago.” That could help, right?
>Write In.
>>
>>3578000
>“Could you try to put me close to Ajna so she can hear my voice? I know exactly what to say to her.” You have absolutely no idea what to say to her…
Something like "Hey Ajna, I'm not dead. That was the Crimzone covering the city that day. The fighting is over for now. I can't come over there to help you out, but I just wanted to let you know that. It's safe now, trust me." or whatever.
>>
>>3578000
>“Could you try to put me close to Ajna so she can hear my voice? I know exactly what to say to her.” You have absolutely no idea what to say to her…
>“Stay there, I’ll manage to get in there somehow. I’ll find a way to help Ajna.” You have no plan at all if you get there!
>>
>>3578000
>>“Could you try to put me close to Ajna so she can hear my voice? I know exactly what to say to her.” You have absolutely no idea what to say to her…
She'll probably at least be happy to know that we aren't dead. Tell her we can't come right now but we'll be there as soon as we can
>>
>>3578014
Maybe we can ask nurse calamity for a ride in an ambulance to get there
>>
>>3578025
Smart plan
>>
>>3578025
supporting
>>
>>3578025
They'd probably stop us for questioning though, it'd be much easier to just MGS there
>>
>>3578047
So are we going to MGS there or talk over the phone? I'm more for the phone talk even though MGSing there is easy for Johnny
>>
>>3578078
But if we go there via ambulance, we'll have a nurse and drugs with us, two things that can be nothing but helpful.
>>
>>3578078
I'm partial to talking on the phone but if we need to go there talking a nice invisible stroll is the ideal path

>>3578086
It would also cause a scene which is the last thing we want
>>
>>3578093
True, but there'll be a nurse that can administer drugs if needed, and riding in a vehicle sure as hell beats walking.
>>
>>3578101
She won't need drugs other than her normal meds which were made so that you don't need a doctor to administer them to you. Plus I think she just needs some support anyways
>>
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“Could you try to put me close to Ajna so she can hear my voice? I know exactly what to say to her.” You have absolutely no idea what to say to her… but you will improvise!

“Thanks, kid. I’ll put the speaker on!” You’ve given hope back to a troubled man. More footsteps echo, presumably Craig moving towards Ajna’s room. There’s Craig knocking and informing Ajna about the phone call, then you hear the banshee shrieks blasting through your phone right into your ears. They sound raspy, like she screamed so much there isn’t much to scream out anymore. “Up to you now, Johnny…”

You take a moment to get your ears some space after that noise. Once you feel ready, you start to talk to her…

“Hey Ajna! I'm not dead. That was the Crimzone covering the city that day. The fighting is over for now. I can't come over there to help you out, but I just wanted to let you know that. It's safe now, trust me.” This is totally going to work!
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! DON’T GET NEAR ME!” You hear Ajna’s muffled screaming, followed by scuffling sounds. “I’LL DO ANYTHING, DEMON! DON’T KILL ME! I’M SORRY FOR WHAT I DID! I BEG YOU! SPARE MY LIFE!”

“Johnny, this shit’s not working…” Craig is being captain obvious. This is harder than you expected to be, and you were assuming it was going to be anything near last time. Clearly, you assumed wrong…

“Ajna! It’s fine! I’m Johnny! I’m not dead! That was the Crim…” You repeat yourself but make it clear that it’s you. After a few moments, the wailing subsides.
“…Th-They are coming here anyway. They are in my dreams. Th-They want me dead. It’s not s-safe. Don’t let them kill me. Don’t let them kill me. Johnny, don’t let them kill me. Please.” Ajna whispers so fast your ears barely hear her in time.
“I’m here, I’m Craig! I won’t let any S.O.B. inside! Trust me!” Now Craig is the one reassuring her.

“Craig…? Craig! Don’t let them in! Don’t let them in, okay?! Leave them outside!”
“Okay, but I still need to take care of you! You need water and meds! Open the door please!”

“W-Wait, weren’t you Johnny? You are Craig now?” Ajna hyperventilates. “…I KNEW IT! You were lying to me all along! You are the demons! I WON’T LET YOU MAKE ME A ZOMBIE! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!”

You hear a deep groan and something hitting something else. “…My bad, kid.” Craig must have facepalmed from fucking up.
“I don’t think I have any other option but to get there somehow. I’ll manage. Stay there, I’ll find a way to help Ajna. I’ll be there, trust me!” You hang up, feeling a guilty gnawing in your gut as you do so…
>>
>>3578177

Being 100% honest with yourself, you have to admit you’re way out of your depth. You’re not even sure if getting there will be much of help. Maybe you need to find proper assistance… but from who?



Are you fucking stupid?! This is a clinic! There is plenty of professional help here! Heck, you could go ask Nurse Calamity for help! She’s a keeper after all! Where is she anyway? She’s always roaming around the clinic, so where do you even start hunting her down? Fuck!

Where do you go from here?!

>Ask the lobby receptionist where she is, you idiot. They keep track of this stuff for records.
>Get lost in the labyrinth down here. She always managed to find you when you were lost!
>Get to Control Room B and ask where! They have cameras working right? Or was it Control Room A?
>Write In.
>>
>>3578181
Forgot to say it's the last reply of the day, we continue tomorrow!
>>
>>3578181
>>Ask the lobby receptionist where she is, you idiot. They keep track of this stuff for records.
Even If they don't know where she is they could just call her over the intercoms
>>
>>3578181
This >>3578209
>>
>>3578181
>>3578209
Supporting
>>
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As you need to prove to yourself you’re not stupid, you know you should go to the lobby and ask the receptionist where Nurse Kata is. They keep track of that stuff. Even if they don’t know where she is they could call her over the intercom. You need to get going!

The receptionist didn’t know where she is, but she’s not scheduled for a surgery or anything. They will try to contact her for you now, after you stressed how important it was for you to find her soon.

Five minutes of waiting in the empty lobby later, someone busts in from the main entrance! Before you fully notice the person themselves though, your eyes catch on the snow flurries coming through the doorway and the thick blanket of snow everywhere past it. Seems like the summer snow isn’t stopping. Isn’t the city still under curfew, or did that end and you didn’t know? Anyway, the person in question is wearing a thick coat and a helmet, and is most definitely a girl. The new arrival quickly regains her composure and strides to the counter right next to you. She says something you quite can’t make out, as her panting makes her hard to understand. From what you gather, the receptionist is as confused as you are.

The woman shakes her head and notices you in the process. She freezes up for one second, then immediately closes the distance and grabs your arms.

“You’re his friend!” Her voice is a mix of concern and hope, despite her clearly being very tired based on body language. “Where is he? I know he’s here! Please tell me!”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Are you feeling okay?” Despite being weirded out you respond with concern for her.

The mystery woman immediately pulls her motorbike helmet off and drops it to the ground without a care in the world. It’s Osgood’s girlfriend, Ruby! “I’m Ruby! I’m Osgood’s girlfriend! P-Please, tell me where he is!”

Dhrtarastra’s words echo in your mind! Even if you are not really suited for this task, you promised to take care of her. You promised him…

“9le4s3! PL39ASE! 7ak3 c4re of Ruby! 5he’s the m0st wonderful hum4n being I’ve met! She’s e1erything to m3!”

“Johnny… Y-Y0u’re the sh17! You’re the best, br0! 1 w1ll never f0rg37 7h1s!”





…You don’t know what that was just now, or where it came from, but you barely stop yourself from crying. Whatever that was doesn’t matter; Ruby is right here in front of you and desperate for answers! Oh god, why is she here now of all times?! Can you deal with her and Ajna in the same day?!

What do you do?!

>“Please calm down. I’m busy right now; I’ll call someone to help you. Wait here.” Nina will have to deal with her.
>“…I think you need to sit down for this. This is going to take a while.” There’s no going back. She needs to know.
>Write In.
>>
>>3579752
>“…I think you need to sit down for this. This is going to take a while.” There’s no going back. She needs to know.
>>
>>3579752
>“…I think you need to sit down for this. This is going to take a while.” There’s no going back. She needs to know.
>>
>>3579752
>“…I think you need to sit down for this. This is going to take a while.” There’s no going back. She needs to know.
>>
>>3579752
>>“…I think you need to sit down for this. This is going to take a while.” There’s no going back. She needs to know.
Bring her to some other room, we don't need to do this in the reception area
>>
>>3579752
>>Write In.
We may be getting feedback from the flames consumed. We should consult with Constance after this.
>>
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“…I think you need to sit down for this. This is going to take a while.” You try to sound as serious as you possibly can. Ruby tenses up and starts looks distressed. You would reassure her nothing is wrong, but it is simply not true. “But this isn’t the place for this. Hold on a second.” You ask the receptionist you just talked with to redirect Nurse Calamity to the bunker when she shows up. Having a scene like this at the lobby is a bad idea, no matter how empty it is here. “Now follow me…” You start walking towards the bunker with Ruby trailing behind you.

Okay, you have some time to come up with a way to say this that’s not a terrible mess.

“Pardon me for this question, but what was your name again?” Ruby stars rubbing her arm out of unease.
“Johnny. Johnny Ando.”
“Thank you, Johnny.” You have no idea why she’s thanking you. She’s not going to be so thankful in a few minutes.

Aside from that, not another word came from Ruby. You can tell she’s trying to come to terms with the possible bad news. Will she understand how bad things really are?

You’re inside a randomly selected room in the bunker. It’s the same as the other unimportant ones in here, all cold stone walls and bare furniture. You invite her to sit on the bed before the talk starts. For a few seconds you simply stammer incoherently, not sure what to say or how to say it. Why do things have to be so hard?

“I know it’s not good news, Johnny.” Ruby’s expression is devoid of any hope, despite her wry smile. “I just want to say I won’t hold anything against you for this.”

You would’ve preferred if she didn’t say anything. If she just yelled at you. You don’t deserve this sort sympathy, not after that.

…What do you say?

>“Osgood is dead.” Straight to the point. Easier to feel the pain now and not after dragging it out.
>“We had to take Osgood to his grandparents’ farm. He’s not ever coming back. He likes farms that much. He’s also a hippie of sorts and rejects all forms of technology so there is no way to contact him, so don’t even try. Also I can’t disclose the location, because it’s in another language.” You’re so bad at this.
>“I’m sorry, Ruby. Osgood did his best, but he’s no longer with us. He died helping us all.” He did. It’s not sugarcoating if it’s the truth.
>“Osgood kicked the bucket. And the bucket shot him like 15 times in a row. And now he’s dead.” You have no idea what you are doing.
>“I couldn’t do anything to save him. He’s gone. I’m sorry.” Apologize immediately.
>“It isn’t just not good news, these are terrible news… He’s dead, Ruby.” That’s the truth.
>“I’m underqualified for this job, so I will tell you like it is: Osgood died trying to beat up one of the bad guys. I’m sorry.”
>Write In.
>>
>>3579919
>>Write In.
We must show we're also sad, have a tear or something form as we
>“I’m sorry, Ruby. Osgood did his best, but he’s no longer with us. He died helping us all.” He did. It’s not sugarcoating if it’s the truth.
>>
>>3579919
>>3579925
>>
>>3579919
This >>3579925
>>
>>3579919
>>“I’m sorry, Ruby. Osgood did his best, but he’s no longer with us. He died helping us all.” He did. It’s not sugarcoating if it’s the truth.
Plus
>Hug her
Comfort the poor girl, let her cry it out
>>
>>3579919
THIS TOO >>3579943
>>
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You sit next to her on the bed, and look her right in the eyes.

“I’m sorry, Ruby. Osgood did his best, but he’s no longer with us. He died helping us all.” He did. It’s not sugarcoating if it’s the truth. You’re barely holding in the tears yourself, but you want to make this message as clear as you can…

Ruby stares at you for a solid 10 seconds before bursting into tears. She’s trying her best to not show as much emotion as you were expecting. Keeping her wailing as loud sobbing at best, hiding her face with her hands and looking away from you, she tries to contain it all.

Seeing her like that made you think it isn’t fair. Why does she need to contain herself? She loved him, right? What is she even trying to prove here with no one else around? Maybe she doesn’t feel comfortable crying in front of you? Fuck, just seeing her like that is getting you… you can’t help dropping some tears too. You took out all your frustrations on Kaz, 7wi57, and many others, but never shed a single tear for your pal until now.

What is wrong with you?

You know exactly what she needs, but you still aren’t moving from your seat. In a split-second you decide to change that and give her the hug she needs and deserves! Wrapping your arms around her, you feel her tense up and stop crying as much. You probably fucked up and made her feel uncomfortable. Ruby looks up at you, her eyes go wide from no, then she finally breaks into the bawling you were expecting from the start.

She finally understood you were hurting as well – that Osgood meant something to you, and that she had someone to grieve with. A connection of sorts…

…Or maybe you are thinking dumb shit and she’s just as weird as her boyfriend was. The fuck do you know? You are not a therapist. You are just glad she’s letting her emotions run wild after going through so much. Judging by how her arms are beginning to crush you, she might be letting them run a bit too wild for your safety… but that won’t stop you from enduring it and helping her!

You’re not entirely sure how much time passed, but it wasn’t long. Ruby is tougher than you anticipated… not like this whole encounter went with your earlier expectations or anything.
>>
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>>3580146

Eventually, Ruby apologized profusely for letting her feelings get the best of her, but you didn’t have any of it and told her there wasn’t anything to worry about. She’s the important one here, not you! That got a smile out of her! Ruby asked you what happened, but there’s too much that ‘happened’ to tell everything outright. Without going into any specific details, you explained the situation to her as tactfully as you could.

She asked if she could see his body. Despite you having reservations if that’s a good idea or not, you have no idea where the morgue is (or what exactly they did with his body after you left him there that day, but she doesn’t need to know that) and told her to ask the staff.

“…Thank you. I’m not even sure if I’m ready to see him yet, or at all. My heart sure can’t take this anymore.” Ruby is way too cordial after sobbing her lungs out. No wonder Osgood fell for her so hard. “Sorry for keeping you occupied with this total stranger.”
“Don’t sweat it. Whatever to make you feel less terrible…” You know how hard it is to do that for others…

“…Can I make you a selfish request? Could you hear me out? Please?” There’s no more sadness in Ruby’s eyes, only a sort of quiet desperation. “I don’t know anyone else here, and from what I remember you were Osgood’s most trusted friend in your group.”

You still have to deal with Ajna, but Nurse Calamity hasn’t shown up just yet.

What do you decide?

>“I did promise I would look out for you. We have some time before the nurse shows up. Go ahead. Tell me what’s wrong.” Accept!
>“I can’t do that now. I need to check on something important first. I’ll show you to my friends, they’ll help you out. Osgood trusted them too.” Decline!
>Write In.
>>
>>3580153
>>“I did promise I would look out for you. We have some time before the nurse shows up. Go ahead. Tell me what’s wrong.” Accept!
Refusing the widow of a fellow warrior?!
NEVER!!
>>
>>3580153
>>“I did promise I would look out for you. We have some time before the nurse shows up. Go ahead. Tell me what’s wrong.” Accept!
>>
>>3580153
>“I did promise I would look out for you. We have some time before the nurse shows up. Go ahead. Tell me what’s wrong.” Accept!
>>
>>3580153
>“I did promise I would look out for you. We have some time before the nurse shows up. Go ahead. Tell me what’s wrong.” Accept!
>>
>>3580153
>>“I did promise I would look out for you. We have some time before the nurse shows up. Go ahead. Tell me what’s wrong.” Accept!
Call Craig and tell him we might be a little late
>>
>>3580170
That works
>>
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“Sure, I did promise I would look out for you. But let me make a quick call first.” You need to inform Craig about this delay.
“E-Excuse me, what did you just say?!”

“Just a second!” Walking a bit too fast, you leave Ruby in the room and call your landlord.

You briefly explain to him you’re having problems and will take longer than you anticipated to get there. He laughed, a nervous edge to his voice, and said he was expecting as much with the panic curfew. It’s better if you’re safe than risking your life for this. He also said if he needs to he will tear down Ajna’s door and feed her himself. You tell him that’s an awful idea, but he needs to do what he needs to do to ensure Ajna is fine. Who are you to judge? Craig might be downplaying it, but you can tell it’s for the best to get there sooner than later.

Hanging up, you can’t stop yourself from sighing. Now you’re even more worried. Nice. You walk back inside the room before you mope any further. Ruby looks away as you enter, then turns back to you. “Johnny, this is a selfish wish of mine. If you’re busy, please go ahead and take care of what’s troubling you.” What an understanding girl… but there is actually no problem here!

“Can’t do anything just yet. We have some time before the nurse shows up.” You walk over and stand a short distance in front of Ruby. “Go ahead. Tell me what’s wrong. Like I said, I promised I would look out for you.” You nod to her. Can’t do shit without Nurse Calamity anyway.
“Promised to who?”
“Who else? Osgood and his partner Dhrtarastra.” Woah, you actually pronounced it without any trouble! Good one!
“That’s a mouthful.” She smiles, or tries to. “You will have to excuse my skepticism, but Osgood and his entity partner asked you that favor, yes? You’re not lying to me? In any capacity there is, I know for sure Osgood plainly hated me with all his guts.”

“I’m not lying.”

A faint smile appears on Ruby’s face, almost like she found peace within herself or something else cliche. Even so, there’s no better way to describe what you saw. “I’m so glad…” It doesn’t last long before her face contorts in grief again. “I knew I should’ve stopped him. I knew he wasn’t being himself. I knew he would…” The tears start again, so you try to console her again.
>>
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>>3580393

After a few seconds of peace passes and Ruby’s breathing evens out, you break the ice. “…So what did you want to talk about?” You let her go and give her some space.
“I don’t have anyone left in this world.” Those grim words come out of her mouth in a plain matter-of-fact way. It’s the same way you would state something simple and obvious like ‘I’m eating spaghetti for dinner.’ What a mood change for a conversation starter. “You said you promised to look out for me, yes? I know you were friends and you want to keep your promise but…” She extends her pinky to you. “…I don’t think it’s fair to you. Let’s promise we will look out for each other instead, you and me. I don’t want to be a burden to you based on what someone else would want, even if it’s him. I know this is childish, but let’s pinky promise it.”

“All right…” More power to her? Whatever helps… And just like that, you seal the pinky deal!

“To. Look. Out. For. Each. Other.” She does the little swings, sounding exactly like a little girl but very formal. “It’s a deal. Another person’s word is his most valuable asset. Please remember that. Thank you for putting up with me.” You think it wouldn’t be as strange if she owned it more…

“Is not having anyone left in this world related to what you wanted to talk about?”

“You’re correct. But my problem is not simple as that.” Ruby gives you an answer you didn’t want. It’s never simple, is it? “I don’t want to tire you with bothersome details, but some context is necessary. I come from a wealthy and well-known family, the Koroma name is still rather lauded in certain circles. After some… disagreements, mainly my relationship with Osgood, they kicked me out of the house to teach me a lesson. They did not approve of Osgood, so I paid the price for him.” The grieving woman smiles with her tear-stained face as she says this.
>>
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>>3580397

“I ended up living with Osgood the last few weeks, but we were constantly harassed by my family’s thugs. Death threats by phone were a daily occurence, but Osgood didn’t seem to mind – so I pretended I didn’t care either.” Ruby shrugs. “The harassment tactics escalated until someone actually tried to kidnap me. That was the straw that broke the camel’s back. It took me a few days to muster the courage, but I was adamant I needed to have a talk with my family. I begged them to stop this nonsense. In return, they gave me an ultimatum: them or Osgood. I don’t need to tell you what choice I reached.“ She chuckles soft enough you think she cleared her throat. “…When I came back to his apartment that day, he suddenly decided to kick me out and told me to go back to my parents.”

“But I couldn’t go back. My parents scorned me far harsher than before and told me to get lost, and Osgood never answered his phone… I had to break inside his apartment and wait for him to come back, but he never did. Now I’ll probably be evicted when they find out he’s dead. I won’t pretend to be well-versed about my options here. What can I do? I don’t have any money. I don’t know if the things I have have any value or where I could sell them, or if any buyers would care. Help me, please.” Still sitting on her bed, Ruby Koroma bows deeply to you.

Uh-oh… That’s not where you thought things were going…

What do you do?

>“Uh… If you need to, you can crash in my place in the meantime.” Another rich hobo?! Where do they keep coming from? Why you?!
>“I know a friend that could let you crash at their place.” Nariko has some space in her apartment, right? If not, one of the other girls can move in!
>“I know a friend that could let you crash at their place.” Matilda has her dojo after all! Maybe you will need to pay rent, but you have the money for it.
>“So are you familiar with homeless shelters?” You don’t want to be a creep and offer your place after just meeting her. This could be the better option.
>“You’re asking the wrong person here. Let me ask someone else who might know more about this.” Craig or Nina should have an idea or two…
>“I have some money I can lend you. Let’s find you a place for you to stay in the meantime.” If there’s people leaving the city, there might be vacancies soon!
>Write In.
>>
>>3580401
>“Uh… If you need to, you can crash in my place in the meantime.” Another rich hobo?! Where do they keep coming from? Why you?!
Gotta catch em all
>>
>>3580401
Last Reply of the day, we continue tomorrow!
>>
>>3580401
>>“Uh… If you need to, you can crash in my place in the meantime.” Another rich hobo?! Where do they keep coming from? Why you?!
We have more money than we know what to do with and going from living with 3 girls to living with 1 is nothing

>>3580406
>Gotta catch em all
Kek
>>
>>3580401
>“Uh… If you need to, you can crash in my place in the meantime.” Another rich hobo?! Where do they keep coming from? Why you?!
>>
>>3580401
>Also give her an explanation about why Osgood was a dumbass that did what he did.
to be combined with this>>3580448
>Also ask the others that are still at the hospital if they could take her in if she isn't interested.
>>
>>3580401
>“Uh… If you need to, you can crash in my place in the meantime.” Another rich hobo?! Where do they keep coming from? Why you?!
>>
>>3580401
>>“Uh… If you need to, you can crash in my place in the meantime.” Another rich hobo?! Where do they keep coming from? Why you?!
And here I was thinking we were gonna get lonely when we got back home
>>
>>3580401
>“Uh… If you need to, you can crash in my place in the meantime.” Another rich hobo?! Where do they keep coming from? Why you?!

But make it absolutely clear that we aren't interested in a relationship with her. We have enough girl problems as it is.
>>
>>3581296
Johnny probably wouldn't want to have a relationship with the girlfriend of the guy that literally died in his arms two days ago.
>>
>>3581394
It's more to reassure her than anything else.
>>
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“Uh… If you need to, you can crash at my place in the meantime.” It has worked wonders for reasons you don’t quite understand. So why not? It’s cheaper for her than trying to pay rent somewhere else too.

Ruby doesn’t bother to hide her shock. Oh yeah, this is the natural response to being given a free place to stay by someone. Nariko and Yu Yan ruined you about that, huh? “I-I’m sorry, it’s just… you’re a boy and… Wouldn’t it be weird with… you know…?” She’s fidgeting and blushing in her seat, a lot like a certain other girl or two you know.
“Oh I didn’t mean it that way at all! I’m not trying to be creepy!” Now you’re sounding like a creep. Nice. It’s one mistake on top of another now. “There’s just a lot of space in my apartment since I live alone and all…”

“Wait, you don’t live with your parents? Aren’t you in high school?” Now Ruby is confused. Both of jumped to the wrong conclusions.
“Eh? Nah, it’s complicated…” You briefly explain your odd housing situation. “…So that’s why I’m living alone now.”

A flustered Ruby waves her hands in front of her and begins to speak at a rapid pace. “I’m so sorry for getting the wrong idea! In my head, I didn’t want to put your parents on the spot bringing a female ‘friend’ to your house like that! I imagined your parents strongly disapproving your decision, and I would end up destroying your life taking care of me! And I know it would’ve made an awkward situation with the girl you like too! I should’ve asked instead of overthinking it!” Once the torrent of words ends, you take a minute to digest it all. So Osgood let on the fact you liked a girl, but not that your parents are pretty much absent? What a weird guy he was…

“…So you don’t feel uncomfortable living with me?”

“How so?”
“Like, having weird dynamics and such?” You feel like you’re corrupting her innocent mind with this question!
“…How are we going to have a weird dynamic? I don’t understand. We pinky promised we would look out for each other. Isn’t that enough to trust each other?” Ruby is totally oblivious to the implication. Which, in a sense, you are too.
“Yes, you’re right.” You scratch the back of your head. That was a confusing train of thought…

“I’m the one asking you a big favor. If that makes you feel uncomfortable, I only ask you to help me find another alternative means of housing.” She bows her head.
>>
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>>3582073

“No no, it’s fine. Welcome aboard, I guess? We should exchange info while we’re here…” She’s going to be your fourth hobo (if you count Amelia)! It speaks volumes about the state of the city that four girls can’t even find a decent place to stay… Anyway, you exchanged phone numbers and gave each other your addresses. Osgood’s apartment is in the Southern District. She informed you she would probably move in to your apartment in a few days, unless the curfew keeps going. Something feels off about this whole thing, but maybe it’s just your gut acting funny…

Someone knocks on the door and startles both of you! You get up and open it, and it’s Nurse Kata! She took her sweet time to find you, didn’t she? At least the things with Ruby are more or less settled.

“Hey darling, I heard you were looking for me.” Nurse Kata winks. Did something fall inside her eye or something? Maybe that’s why she has her other eye covered.
“S’up?” You casually say… Wait, fuck no! You shouldn’t be so casual! Ajna is in trouble!
“Do you need anything…?” She looks behind you and sees Ruby, giving her a big smile.
“Ms. Calamity, Hello.” Ruby waves. Uh… so they know each other. Good to know.

What do you say?

>“I need your assistance and an ambulance. One of my friends is in trouble!” Help Ajna yourself!
>“I have a friend in trouble! This is her address! Please go help her!” She needs a professional, not you!
>Write In.
>>
>>3582076
>“I need your assistance and an ambulance. One of my friends is in trouble!” Help Ajna yourself!
>>
>>3582076
>>“I need your assistance and an ambulance. One of my friends is in trouble!” Help Ajna yourself!
>>
>>3582076
>Write-in
>Explain the Ajna situation and ask her for advice on how to handle something like that
Don't ask her for an ambulance or anything we can just walk there. Some medicine that will calm her down or get her to eat would be much appreciated though
>>
>>3582076
THIS >>3582106
>>
>>3582106
This, she might have experience or training in this sort of thing

I honestly don't know why people want to take an ambulance there, we aren't even that far and it would probably just freak Ajna put
>>
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“Hold on a second, sugar! How in the world did you get here?!” Kata finally registers Ruby as being in the room. Yeah, that’s a great question actually. How did Ruby get to the clinic if there’s a curfew going? Why didn’t it occur to you?!

“…The sewers.” Ruby bows her head. You can’t tell if it’s in shame or something else.

“…Johnny, did you inform her about—”
“Yeah, I did.” You respond without second guessing.
“Then why is she here?” Kata looks back and forth from you and Ruby. Then her eyes narrow. “Oh, is this why you needed to see me? For her to deal with the aftermath?” Sheesh, don’t say it like that!

“Not exactly. One of my friends is in trouble and I need some advice on how to handle her situation. Please!” You need to help Ajna. There hasn’t been too much time since Craig’s call, so you should be okay for now.
“Huh?” Ruby looks back up at you. You didn’t tell her about Ajna yet, so she mistakenly thought things were all right. Little does she know…
“Handsome, please. Calm down and explain to me what’s going on in detail.” Nurse Calamity is all business now.

You explain the situation with Ajna as best as you can, but you couldn’t give Nurse Kata the information she needed (like the type of medication she’s taking and such) so you ended up calling Craig. After discussing various drug names and asking a lot of questions to him, Nurse Calamity asks you to follow her to grab some medication just in case. On the way to the storage room, she explains what you can and can’t do with Ajna. The gist of it is you need to calm her down, give her space, and try not to force her to do anything she doesn’t want to do. Sounds easier said than done. After discussing your idea and getting a thumbs up, you have everything you need to finally leave the clinic!

“Johnny why didn't you tell me this before? I wouldn’t have been so selfish to make you listen to my request. Now I’m concerned for your friend’s safety. What were you thinking?!” In your eagerness to get going, you almost forgot Ruby was following you around the place. The rich girl seems pretty mad at you, but it was a non-win scenario anyway: she would’ve resented you for leaving her hanging if you didn’t listen to her first. You don’t need more people resenting you.

“Sweetie, I’m worried too. It’s better if you leave this chatty chat business for later. Let him deal with this situation first.” Kata shuts Ruby up as kindly as she can. “If the curfew wasn’t in effect, I would’ve gone with you. Those muscle heads outside aren’t the most reasonable of people.”
>>
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>>3582247

“Yes, I’m sorry… How unkind of me.” Ruby gives Nurse Kata a formal bow. “And I’m sorry, Johnny. I’m being unreasonable.” She means it. That’s good. You didn’t mind before anyway, she kind of had a point.
“It’s no problem. Relax. Kata, could you please take care of Ruby while I’m gone?”
“Yes, of course. There is unfinished business we need to address…” Kata stares at Ruby, she nods in response. There’s no doubt it involves Osgood in some way. Wherever they’re keeping his body in this place, that’s up to them to handle it.

But there is only one problem: Your plan. You told Kata you would get there undetected with your power, but that’s kind of it. She left you a window open in one of the vacant rooms on the first floor, where you are right now, so you can leave stealthily that way instead of leaving obvious footprints from the front door.

The miracle snow has stopped falling for now, but the snow level is higher than it was the other day. Why does this keep going? It’s June! JUNE!



“Partner, don’t stare at me for answers. You already know what to do.” Philonune says with his usual confidence.
“That’s the problem Philo. I don’t know what to do.”
“Sure you do. You have your options; it’s only a matter of deciding which one you prefer. Easy.”

Fuck, Ruby and Kata just left you here thinking you were ready to go… but you keep looking at the window begging for an answer. The clattering bag full of pill bottles and other medicine you’re carrying for Ajna doesn’t give you a solution either.

What do you do?

>Just walk there? No need for something fancy. It’s a little past noon and you doubt there’s anybody around…
>Uh… Climb the rooftops and jump from building to building? Philonune can help you with that!
>What did Ruby say about the sewers again? That could be useful now that you don’t have Amelia and Yukika with you…
>Write In.
>>
>>3582253
>>What did Ruby say about the sewers again? That could be useful now that you don’t have Amelia and Yukika with you…
>>
>>3582253
>>What did Ruby say about the sewers again? That could be useful now that you don’t have Amelia and Yukika with you…
If Ruby could do it then I don't see why we can't. Might need to take a shower later but we'll be fine
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>>3582253
>What did Ruby say about the sewers again? That could be useful now that you don’t have Amelia and Yukika with you…
What's the worst we could find? Hidden cultist lair? Underground rebellion base? Spooky catacombs?
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>>3582253
>What did Ruby say about the sewers again? That could be useful now that you don’t have Amelia and Yukika with you…
Sewer Levels are always "fun."
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You know what they say: no game without a sewer level is worth playing… No. No you don’t. Nobody fucking says that. You’re not even sure if that’s a thing or why you are thinking this, but its sewer time! Hooray…

With Philonune’s ability, you make your body go chameleon again and step out into the snow-laden streets, pretending your plan isn’t going to suck.

Aside from the occasional one or two soldiers patrolling or standing guard at corners, there is absolutely nothing outside. Good thing you didn’t take the front door! The streets and lanes are cleared free of all snow, and even some parts of the sidewalk are opened up. You can finally see the asphalt and concrete you’re walking on. It’s not hard to figure out the army used this curfew time to clean up the corpses and any signs of what really happened the other day… yet the question remains as to why they took so much time in the first place. There’s a lot of possible reasons, but the simplest and the one you’ve decided on is ‘they suck’.

Because most of the snow was removed, you can plainly see the sewer lid within your reach. None of the soldiers are paying any attention to it since it’s close to an alleyway between two nearby buildings, so you swoop right in and down the iron ladder!

Well, this is definitely a sewer… and it smells as terrible as one would imagine! There’s barely any light besides the wall lamps spaced out, the stone walkways are mossy at parts and iced over at others, and you swear you hear something in the distant black gloom… One foolish man would wonder how you are possibly going to survive moving around and finding the place you need to go — but you are not a foolish man! You’re the man with the plan! Holding your breath and conserving your movements, you take your phone out and turn on the GPS map! It’s not perfect, but it will tell you where you are down in this disgusting maze…

One part of you thinks you should keep your invisibility up despite being slightly damaging to your psyche, not to mention churning your insides and making your skin crawl when you focus on it too much or move too suddenly. It hasn’t proved to be as hurtful lately though, especially keeping in mind how much you’ve used it ever since you realized you could do it all along. Maybe it’s your dying friend’s sacrifice giving you power, or maybe it’s you adapting to repeated use, but you don’t think it can get any worse. You will keep it up just in case…

Judging by the GPS indicator, it’s going to be a 15-20 minute walk. It can’t be that bad, right? You just have to watch where you step and not walk too fast. One shower later and you’ll be just fine. How did Ruby manage not to smell like walking shit, going through this creepy place? Wasn’t she wearing a helmet? What’s up with that? Food for thought…
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>>3582408

Putting aside any doubts and fears you might have wandering down here, you begin to set out into the dirty labyrinth of Pokyo Lokyo! …That’s the sewer and not the actual city you left above you.

…You’re no expert with sewers, but you’re pretty sure what you are seeing is considered normal for sewers. But what’s the biggest anomaly you could find down here under everybody’s noses? Hidden cultist lair? Underground rebellion base? Spooky catacombs? Or… a motorcycle…

What’s a motorcycle doing here?! Who the fuck leaves a motorcycle in a sewer?! Maybe it’s Ruby’s…? But she said she didn’t have anything! She said a person’s word is the most important thing! Perhaps there is something you don’t know, something missing? Of course there is something you don’t know; someone fucking ditched a motorcycle inside this sewer tunnel! Nothing about this makes any bit of sense!

“Who the fuck leaves a motorcycle in a sewer?!” Exactly! …Wait. That’s not your inner monologue! It’s someone else! But who?!

You slowly turn around and see… someone you weren’t expecting at all! HOLY SHIT!!!

Sadly this is all we have for this thread! Thanks for playing!
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>>3582556
So it's fucking Trent, isn't it?
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>>3582592
He would be the one to go running down there, though for what god forsaken reason is beyond me. But he's be good for Anja, so it evens out.
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>>3584568
That thread was non-canon though or was it? Osgood's words got to Johnny somehow even though he couldn't understand them.
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>>3582592
Probably, QM seems to want to really push that AjnaxTrent ship for some reason if the race episode is anything to go off of



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